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The MCG has come under scrutiny after two men were arrested for allegedly smuggling loaded firearms into last night’s AFL Premiership fixture between Collingwood and Carlton.

The incident, which occurred yesterday evening with 82,000 fans gathered at the venue, has raised serious concerns about the MCG’s security protocols, especially after a significant security upgrade was implemented earlier this year.

Victorian Police allege the weapons were found after a search by officers at the ground, as two men allegedly refused to leave the venue when security challenged their behaviour.

Stuart Fox, Chief Executive of MCG operator the Melbourne Cricket Club, described the incident as “disappointing and upsetting”, noting that the incident “highlights why we continue to explore and invest in new technologies to assist us.”

Both suspects, identified as Omar Salman, aged 21, and Mohamad Noori, aged 27, were charged with firearms offenses, including possessing a loaded firearm and ammunition without a license.

They pair were each on bail for other alleged offences at the time of the incident.

Despite the MCG’s installation of AI-powered screening technology aimed at enhancing security prior to the last AFL season, it appears that the security system failed to adequately follow up on an alert triggered during the screening process. The system, which uses artificial intelligence to scan for prohibited items, identified suspicious objects, but secondary manual checks were insufficient, allowing the weapons to pass through undetected.

Fox has promised to increase the extensiveness of the secondary manual security process, noting “further investigation is required”, adding “our initial internal investigation identified a breakdown in the thoroughness of the secondary and manual screening process.

“As a result, we will be increasing the extensiveness of the secondary manual security process and patrons may experience slight delays as they attend upcoming events.”

Following the incident, Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan, called the situation “absolutely unacceptable” and has ordered an urgent review of security protocols at the MCG.

She advised “the MCG should be a place of celebration, not one where people carry weapons,” she said, underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety of the public during major sporting events.

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Therese Fitzgerald confirmed that the men were “known individuals” and that one of them was prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Despite the incident, the AFL Fans Association (AFLFA) expressed confidence in the venue's security, emphasizing that the breach was likely due to human error.

AFLFA President, Ron Issko stated that while the breach was concerning, it would not deter fans from attending future games.

He commented “we know security is necessary, and if there are changes to ensure safety, fans will accommodate that.”

The incident has prompted a broader discussion about security at major sporting venues.

Police and government officials are expected to meet with the AFL and MCG operators to review the event and implement further measures as needed. Both the AFL and the MCC have committed to ensuring the safety and security of fans at future events, underscoring the seriousness with which they are addressing the breach.

The incident is not being treated as terrorism-related.

Salman is due to appear in court on 16th April, while Noori’s next court date is set for 5th May.

Both suspects are expected to be banned for life from attending any AFL match.

Image: AFL action at the MCG.

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